Smoldering Inside
Theme of the Week: Green-Eyed Monster
Randy Rowland
Monday, July 12, 2004
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Key Bible Verse: A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away (Proverbs 14:30). Bonus Reading:Psalm 106:16—18
My secret dream is to be a rock-and-roll star—a guitar virtuoso with a passionate, powerful voice like Bono of the band U2.
Well, the lead guitarist in our church band plays with incredible touch and sensitivity, but can also be extremely powerful. I see him radiant as he shares his gifts and I sense God's pleasure to see this creature of His make a six-stringed instrument spout such a variety of sound for worship and special music.
I should probably respond by saying, "Wow! God has really blessed you, and watching you makes my heart soar." But many days I couldn't say that in total honesty. I want his gifts. I admire Jeff to the point of envy. It can distract me, causing me to lose sight of my own gifts and to wind up fantasizing about something I could never attain. Give me eight hours a day of guitar lessons and singing practice for three years with the best teachers and I still couldn't lead "Pass It On" properly.
Envy gets us looking down our noses at ourselves and peering over our neighbor's fence wanting what he has. And that doesn't lead to a joy-filled life.
—Randy Rowland in Sins We Love
Adapted from Sins We Love (Doubleday, 2000) by permission.
My Response: Do I see gifted people around me as a group asset or a potential personal threat?
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Sovereign Lord, keep me from envying the accomplishments of others. Instead, make me grateful for and content with the gifts You've entrusted to me.
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